In front of hundreds of students, Savana Robles (‘24) returned to perform a hip-hop dance solo during Donversity Rally A on Friday, Feb. 10, in addition to her performance as part of the AV Dance Team.

“Dance needs to be more recognized and is actually really hard for some people—they should take pride in their work. For me, I take lots and lots of pride,” said Robles.

Since the age of two, Robles has been dancing her heart out. She has always been top three at any dance competition and has placed second in an episode of Dance Moms, beating Jojo Siwa.

“It’s nice to see people enjoy what I do and it’s different, especially in front of a school. Some people don’t really care but I’m glad that I got to show the school something different,” said Robles.

Robles was encouraged to pursue dance since she was a toddler, due to the fact that both her dad and mom have been dancing since they were young adults.

“I started helping Savy (Savana) with choreography when she was 11 or 12. One day she came up to me and asked if I could help her with a hip-hop solo, how could I say no?” said Gary Robles, Savana’s Dad.

Robles’ family has helped her pursue dance as a passion since she was young. Her mom helps with costumes, her dad with choreography, and her uncle occasionally drops in with advice.

“My dad and I practice at least three times a week in our little kitchen because we get no studio time. We do what we need to do,” said Robles.

Robles performed her first solo during the 2022 Donversity Rally. Since then she’s become one of the four Dance Team captains while continuing practice outside of school at the Xtreme Dance Force Company as well.

“I feel like some people are scared to go out there and show their talent. I wanted to show that dance isn’t just some quote-unquote sport to some people,” said Robles.

Robles has won multiple scholarships and numerous amounts of prize money from placing at multiple competitions she’s been to. 

“I’m so proud of my girl. It’s amazing to have seen her grow in every category, whether it’s contemporary or hip-hop. She’s been really dedicated and deserves everything she’s earned,” said father Gary Robles.

With years of experience in practicing and performing solo,  Robles no longer feels nervous  dancing in front of large audiences, such as the hundreds of students at Amador.

“For me being a dancer for so long and always having a crowd, I’m used to it by now. It’s nothing new but it’s never not going to be fun,” said Robles.